–Cuban says he has not closed the door on the possible return of suspended guard Delonte West. “No decisions have been made one way or another; otherwise we would have made it,” Cuban said, adding, “It’s just a process that’s pretty much down to me making a decision.”

West has been suspended twice in the last two weeks for conduct detrimental to the team. Cuban says he believes in giving second-chances, pointing out, “Do you not remember last year?” Obviously referring to Lamar Odom, Cuban added, “Let’s just say we won’t give as many chances as we gave people last year.”

Cuban said he was “too forgiving when everybody else was telling me not to be. So I’ll take that one. I won’t be as forgiving this year. I learned my lessons.”

Cuban was asked if West’s $1.2 million salary is a factor in the decision. If they were to waive West, the Mavericks would be responsible for the entire amount. Another option is to reach a settlement.

“We’re not over the (luxury) tax anymore,” Cuban said of possible having to eat West’s salary, “so it’s like playing with the house’s money.”

Earlier this evening, Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said he is under a “directive” not to discuss the West situation.

–Although Carlisle has cast doubt whether Chris Kaman (strained calf) will be available for next Tuesday’s season opener against the Lakers, Cuban said “I think Chris will be ready.”

When told that Carlisle didn’t seem as positive about the possibility, Cuban said, “I don’t know how realistic it is that Kaman will be playing, but we’ll see.”

Also before tonight’s preseason finale against Charlotte, Carlisle said that Elton Brand will sit out. Carlisle said nothing is wrong with Brand. Carlisle just wanted to give him some rest.